Gerald E. Wilke, age 69, of West Bend, passed away Sunday February 7, 2016 at his residence.
He was born on December 18, 1946 in Fond du Lac to the late Henry and Evelyn (nee Breseman) Wilke, and was raised on the family farm in the Town of Wayne. Gerald attended Spring Grade School (on the corner of Hwy 28 and Lake Bernice Rd.), and went on to attend Kewaskum High School.
He was employed for many years in the shipping department at the Gehl Company, and was a member of the Gehl Company Hexelbank Club. In his later years he worked at Regal Ware in Kewaskum along with various other part time jobs.
Gerald was the perfect farm boy, and was the best corn cultivator in the family. He loved farm equipment, horses, and nice cars. Gerald enjoyed landscaping, interior decorating, masonry, training and working with horses, and he always harbored a dream of becoming a funeral director.
Gerald was the youngest of four. He was a loving and caring brother, and always there to help with whatever you needed. At the same time he was also one of the greatest practical jokers, with family, friends, and co-workers.
Those Gerald leaves behind to cherish his memory include his sister, Vernette (Daniel) Casey of Campbellsport; brother, Irvin (Ericka) Wilke of Buckeye, AZ; sister-in-law, Kathleen Wilke of Campbellsport; special friends, the Shaun Schultz family of Lomira; many nieces and nephews, along with great-nieces and great-nephews; other relatives and many friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Evelyn; brother, Charles Wilke; along with many aunts and uncles.
Private family burial will take place in Washington County Memorial Park. A memorial service with family and friends will take place early summer, with date and time to be announced.
Myrhum Patten Miller & Keitzer Funeral Homes have been entrusted with Gerald’s care. Online condolences may be expressed at www.myrhum-patten.com